Orthodontic FAQs

Where should you begin with orthodontics in Lakewood? Dr. Joel and Dr. Charles understand that as a parent, you naturally want the best for your child, especially regarding their health. One aspect of health that is often overlooked is orthodontic care. Think of this blog as your orthodontic FAQ. We’ll discuss what orthodontics is, its importance, when and why your child might need it, what the first visit entails, the variety of treatments we offer, and how to estimate the cost of treatment. We aim to help you understand how we at Brodsky Orthodontics are committed to guiding your child toward a future of confident smiles.

Orthodontics. That’s Just a Fancy Word For “Dentist,” Right? 

If you’re wondering what exactly orthodontics is, you’re not alone. In simple terms, it’s a specialized field of dentistry focused on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities. While orthodontics might sound complicated, it’s all about ensuring that your (or your child’s) teeth grow straight and align as they should.

Why is it essential for children, you ask? Early orthodontic care can prevent more severe issues like biting, chewing, or speaking difficulties. More than that, it’s about confidence. With straight teeth and a perfect smile, your child can beam with self-assurance, and we’re here at Brodsky Orthodontics to help make that a reality.

What To Expect At Your First Visit

At Brodsky Orthodontics, we strive to make your child’s first visit a breeze. Walking into an orthodontic office for the first time can be nerve-racking for youngsters. Our goal is to offer a stress-free and friendly environment with a team ready to answer any questions your kiddo might have. 

In the initial visit, we typically start with a comprehensive oral examination. This helps us understand your child’s unique needs. We may take X-rays or digital molds of your child’s teeth if needed. These methods provide an in-depth look into your child’s dental and jaw development. Rest assured; we take extra care to ensure these procedures are as comfortable as possible. Remember, we intend to make your child’s journey to a healthy smile enjoyable!

How Old Should Your Kids Be? 

Determining the right time for your child’s first orthodontist visit can seem tricky. However, the American Association of Orthodontists (along with our doctors) recommends a check-up by age 7. Even though your child’s teeth might appear straight, there could be underlying issues with jaw growth and emerging teeth. So, it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Aside from age, keep an eye out for signs that your child may need an orthodontic check-up. These could include difficulty chewing or biting, thumb sucking beyond age 5, crowded or misplaced teeth, or jaws that pop or shift. At Brodsky Orthodontics, we help guide your child’s teeth to a future of dazzling smiles.

What Treatment Options Does Brodsky Offer?  

At Brodsky Orthodontics, we take pride in offering various orthodontic treatment options. This means we can cater to your child’s unique needs and preferences, ensuring they’re comfortable and confident throughout their orthodontic journey.

First, let’s talk about our miniature metal braces. These classic fixtures are a tried-and-true method for straightening teeth. They’re robust, reliable, and perfect for addressing various orthodontic challenges. Plus, they’re more comfortable and sleeker than you remember from childhood!

Adding another treatment option to our diverse portfolio, we are thrilled to include INBRACE® – a convenient, and truly hidden orthodontic solution at Brodsky Orthodontics. INBRACE is a game-changer in the field of orthodontics, offering a unique treatment that enhances your child’s smile without the world noticing. Unlike traditional braces or aligners, INBRACE uses a Smartwire®, which is carefully applied by Dr. Joel or Dr. Charles to the back of your child’s teeth, making it virtually invisible.

Next, we have clear braces. These are like the incognito agents of orthodontic appliances. Crafted from clear or tooth-colored ceramic, they seamlessly blend with your child’s teeth, making them less noticeable while delivering fantastic results. They offer all the strength of metal braces with a touch of aesthetic elegance.

Then there’s Invisalign. This innovative option involves a series of clear, removable aligners custom-made for your child’s teeth. They’re virtually invisible and can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing. Perfect for the child who prefers a more subtle approach to orthodontic treatment.

With many treatment options, Brodsky Orthodontics is poised to provide personalized, effective care for your child’s orthodontic needs. Together, we can choose the best option that suits your child’s lifestyle and personality while prioritizing their oral health.

How Much Will Treatment Set Us Back?

Orthodontic treatment is an investment in your child’s long-term health and self-confidence, and we at Brodsky Orthodontics believe that finances should not stand in the way of this essential care.

While it’s difficult to provide exact cost estimates due to each patient’s unique needs, we strive to make treatments affordable. The cost will depend on the complexity of the case and the type of orthodontic treatment chosen. 

Budget considerations are significant, so we proudly offer various financing options to suit different financial situations. We’ll work with you to design a payment plan that comfortably fits your budget, and we can help maximize your insurance benefits too.

Orthodontic care is an essential step on your child’s journey to a healthier, happier smile, and we’re committed to making that journey as accessible as possible for all families.

Get Your Questions Answered At Brodsky Orthodontics

Investing in orthodontic care for your child enhances not only their oral health but also their self-confidence. At Brodsky Orthodontics in Lakewood, we believe every child deserves a stunning, shining smile and are dedicated to making this a reality. Dr. Joel, Dr. Charles, and our skilled team remains committed to providing personalized, effective orthodontic solutions that suit your child’s needs and lifestyle. Ready to start this transformative journey? Go here to schedule a free consultation and discover how we can help your child achieve the perfect smile they deserve.